University of Leeds

SUMMARY

The University of Leeds upgraded its AV infrastructure with NETGEAR M4250 switches, enhancing reliability and simplifying management. Training sessions empowered staff to manage the scalable, future-proof system effectively.

INTRODUCTION

The University of Leeds, a prestigious institution known for its innovative approach to education and research, recently upgraded its audiovisual (AV) infrastructure to enhance the teaching and learning experience. At the heart of this upgrade was the deployment of NETGEAR AV Line M4250 switches, designed to handle the unique demands of modern AV environments.

The project culminated in a hands-on training session led by Brett Dorman in the university’s iconic Helix building, a space renowned for fostering innovation and collaboration.

THE CHALLENGE

As the University of Leeds expanded its AV capabilities, they faced several challenges:

• Complex AV Networking Requirements: The need for robust and reliable network infrastructure to support high-bandwidth AV applications.
• User-Friendly Management: Ensuring that the system could be easily managed by IT staff and AV technicians with varying levels of networking expertise.
• Scalability and Future-Proofing: Deploying a solution that could grow with the university’s evolving needs.
• Seamless Integration: Minimizing disruptions during deployment and ensuring compatibility with existing systems.

THE SOLUTION

To address these challenges, the University of Leeds selected the NETGEAR M4250 AV Line switches, designed specifically for professional AV over IP installations. Key features of the solution included:

• NETGEAR IGMP+: Simplifying multicast configuration for smooth AV streaming.
• Auto-LAG and Auto-Trunk: Automating link aggregation for increased bandwidth and redundancy.
• Engage Controller Software: Providing an intuitive interface for managing network settings and configurations.
• Pre-Configured AV Profiles: Tailored profiles that streamline setup for common AV applications.

The deployment was complemented by a comprehensive training session held in the Helix building. This session focused on equipping the university’s AV team with the skills needed to maximize the capabilities of the M4250 switches.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WORKFLOW

The training session, led by Brett Dorman, covered core aspects of the AV Line switches:

1. IGMP+ Fundamentals: Simplified multicast setup for reliable AV streaming.
2. Auto-LAG and Auto-Trunk: Demonstrating automated bandwidth management and failover capabilities.
3. Engage Controller: Hands-on experience with a user-friendly interface for streamlined network management.
4. AV-Specific Configuration Profiles: Practical guidance on utilizing pre-configured profiles to save time and reduce complexity.
5. Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with the technology, enhancing their understanding of its functionality and potential applications.

RESULTS

The deployment and training yielded significant benefits for the University of Leeds:

• Enhanced Network Reliability: The M4250 switches delivered seamless AV performance, meeting the demands of high-quality video and audio streaming.
• Simplified Management: The Engage Controller and pre-configured profiles enabled quicker setups and easier troubleshooting.
• Empowered Staff: Training sessions equipped the IT and AV teams with the knowledge to operate and maintain the system confidently.
• Scalability: The solution is poised to support future AV expansions and technological advancements.

CONCLUSION

The collaboration between the University of Leeds and NETGEAR highlights the importance of innovative technology and targeted training in advancing educational infrastructure. The deployment of M4250 AV Line switches in the AV infrastructure not only resolved immediate challenges but also laid the groundwork for future growth. This case underscores the value of investing in cutting-edge solutions that blend performance, usability, and scalability.

“We have used the NETGEAR AV switches across teaching and meeting spaces to drive the delivery of networked AV solutions, focusing on secure, remotely manageable and easy to deploy systems.” – Ross Little, AV Solutions Manager, University of Leeds.

Source: University of Leeds (on Medium.com) | Link